Decadent Chocolate Raspberry Cupcakes Recipe

Decadent Chocolate Raspberry Cupcakes Recipe for Divine Indulgence

Whipping up these delectable chocolate raspberry cupcakes can transport you to a world of pure indulgence.

Sweet raspberries dance perfectly with rich chocolate in every delightful bite.

Soft, moist cake layers promise an incredible sensory experience for dessert enthusiasts.

Delicate fruit notes complement intense cocoa depths, creating a magical combination.

Chocolate and raspberry merge like sophisticated culinary soulmates in this irresistible treat.

Summer or winter, these cupcakes deliver pure bliss with minimal effort.

You’ll want to savor each magical morsel and share the deliciousness with someone special.

Chocolate Raspberry Cupcakes Worth Every Bite

  • Quick & Easy Chocolate Raspberry Cupcake Delights
  • Straightforward recipe that welcomes novice bakers with simple steps and minimal technical skills required.
  • Combines rich chocolate with tangy raspberries, creating an irresistible taste that appeals to both kids and adults.
  • Ideal for birthdays, romantic date nights, holiday parties, or casual weekend treats that instantly elevate any gathering.
  • Can be prepared in advance, with components like filling and buttercream made separately, allowing stress-free entertaining and flexible preparation.

Ingredients List for Rich Cupcakes

Dry Ingredients:
  • All-Purpose Flour: Gives structure and texture to the cupcakes, choose unbleached for best results.
  • Cocoa Powder: Provides rich chocolate flavor, Dutch-processed works best for deeper color.
  • Baking Soda: Essential leavening agent that helps cupcakes rise and become fluffy.
  • Salt: Enhances overall flavor and balances sweetness.
Wet Ingredients:
  • Granulated Sugar, Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps create moist texture, brown sugar provides deeper flavor.
  • Vegetable Oil: Keeps cupcakes tender and moist, neutral-flavored oils work best.
  • Egg: Binds ingredients and provides structure, room temperature recommended.
  • Vanilla Extract: Adds depth and enhances chocolate flavor, pure vanilla is preferable.
  • Buttermilk: Creates tender crumb and adds slight tanginess, can substitute with milk and vinegar.
  • Hot Water or Coffee: Intensifies chocolate flavor and helps create smooth batter.
Filling and Topping Ingredients:
  • Fresh Raspberries, Raspberry Puree: Provides fruity flavor and vibrant color, choose ripe and sweet berries.
  • Cornstarch: Thickens raspberry filling and creates smooth consistency.
  • Powdered Sugar: Sweetens and stabilizes buttercream, sifted for smooth texture.
  • Chocolate Chips: Creates rich ganache, dark or semi-sweet recommended.
  • Heavy Cream: Makes smooth ganache and enriches buttercream.
  • Unsalted Butter: Base for buttercream, ensures creamy and smooth texture.
  • Fresh Raspberries: Optional garnish, adds beautiful presentation and fresh flavor.

Bake Decadent Raspberry Chocolate Cupcakes Like This

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Crank the oven to 350°F (175°C). Grab a muffin tin and line it with cute cupcake papers. This sets the stage for magic!

Step 2: Create Chocolate Magic

Grab these ingredients:
  • All-purpose flour
  • Cocoa powder
  • Baking soda
  • Salt
  • Granulated sugar
  • Brown sugar
  • Vegetable oil
  • Egg
  • Vanilla extract
  • Buttermilk
  • Hot water or coffee

Whisk the dry ingredients in one bowl. In another bowl, combine sugars, oil, egg, and vanilla until silky smooth. Pour in buttermilk and mix. Gently fold dry ingredients into wet mixture. Splash in hot water or coffee for extra richness. Pour batter into cupcake liners, filling about two-thirds full.

Step 3: Bake to Perfection

Slide the tin into the oven. Bake for 18-22 minutes. Check doneness by inserting a toothpick- it should come out clean. Let cupcakes cool completely.

Step 4: Craft Raspberry Filling

Combine in a saucepan:
  • Fresh raspberries
  • Sugar
  • Cornstarch
  • Water

Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently. Watch the mixture transform and thicken (about 5 minutes). Remove from heat and strain if you want a smooth filling.

Step 5: Whip Up Chocolate Ganache

Heat heavy cream until steaming. Pour over chocolate chips. Let sit for two minutes, then stir until glossy and smooth. Allow to cool slightly.

Step 6: Prepare Raspberry Buttercream

Beat softened butter until creamy. Gradually add powdered sugar. Mix in raspberry puree until light and fluffy.

Step 7: Assemble Cupcake Masterpiece

Carefully hollow out cupcake centers. Fill each with raspberry filling. Top with either:
  • Smooth chocolate ganache
  • Fluffy raspberry buttercream

Step 8: Final Flourish

Garnish with:
  • Fresh raspberries
  • Chocolate shavings
  • Powdered sugar dusting

Serve and watch everyone swoon over your incredible creation!

Tips for Deep Flavor and Perfect Texture

  • Customize Cupcake Texture: Use room temperature ingredients like eggs and buttermilk to ensure a smoother, more uniform batter that creates tender, soft cupcakes.
  • Prevent Raspberry Seeds: Strain the raspberry filling through a fine-mesh sieve to remove seeds, creating a silky-smooth filling that spreads easily.
  • Control Moisture Balance: Don't overmix the batter, as this can lead to tough, dense cupcakes. Stir just until ingredients are combined for the most delicate crumb.
  • Boost Chocolate Intensity: Replace hot water with hot coffee to enhance the deep chocolate flavor without adding extra sweetness to the cupcakes.
  • Store and Preserve Freshness: Keep cupcakes in an airtight container at room temperature for 2-3 days, or refrigerate for up to 5 days to maintain their moist texture and vibrant flavors.

Storing Your Cupcakes for Lasting Freshness

  • Store cupcakes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Wrap individual cupcakes in plastic wrap to prevent drying out.
  • Place cupcakes in a freezer-safe container, separating layers with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before serving.
  • Bring refrigerated cupcakes to room temperature for 30 minutes before serving. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture and prevent buttercream from melting.
  • Enjoy cupcakes within 2-3 days for optimal freshness and flavor, especially if topped with buttercream or ganache.

Great Pairings for These Fruity Cupcakes

  • Uncork a glass of late harvest Cabernet Franc to complement the rich chocolate and tangy raspberry notes. The wine's sweet undertones dance perfectly with the cupcake's decadent flavor profile.
  • Brew a smooth espresso or dark roast coffee to cut through the sweetness. The robust coffee enhances the chocolate's depth while balancing the fruity raspberry undertones.
  • Pour a chilled raspberry lambic or prosecco to create a refreshing contrast. The bubbles and light fruit notes will cleanse the palate between each delectable cupcake bite.
  • Steep a raspberry or Earl Grey tea to provide a delicate counterpoint. The tea's subtle aromatics will complement the cupcake's rich chocolate and bright raspberry elements.

Fun Fillings and Frostings to Experiment With

  • Gluten-Free Chocolate Raspberry Cupcakes: Replace wheat flour with almond or gluten-free flour blend, ensuring the same tender texture while accommodating wheat sensitivities.
  • Vegan Berry Chocolate Cupcakes: Swap egg with flax egg, use plant-based milk instead of buttermilk, and replace butter with coconut oil or vegan margarine for a dairy-free version.
  • Low-Sugar Raspberry Chocolate Treats: Substitute sugar with monk fruit sweetener or stevia, reducing overall calories while maintaining rich chocolate flavor and fruity raspberry notes.
  • Keto-Friendly Chocolate Raspberry Mini Cakes: Use almond flour, replace sugar with erythritol, incorporate coconut cream instead of heavy cream, and add sugar-free chocolate chips for a low-carb alternative.

Cupcake Questions Covered Here

  • Are the cupcakes very chocolatey?

These cupcakes are super rich and decadent, using cocoa powder and hot coffee to enhance the deep chocolate flavor. The combination of sugar and cocoa creates an intense chocolate experience.

  • Can I make these cupcakes without buttermilk?

Yes, you can easily substitute buttermilk by mixing regular milk with a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice. Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes before using, which will create a similar tangy consistency.

  • How do I prevent my cupcakes from being dry?

Avoid overmixing the batter and don’t overbake. Stop mixing when ingredients are just combined, and check cupcakes a few minutes before the recommended baking time. The hot water or coffee helps keep the cupcakes moist.

  • Is this recipe good for beginners?

Absolutely! The recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward techniques. The steps are clear, and even novice bakers can successfully create these delicious chocolate raspberry cupcakes with some patience and attention to detail.

Print
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Decadent Chocolate Raspberry Cupcakes Recipe

Decadent Chocolate Raspberry Cupcakes Recipe


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4.7 from 31 reviews

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: 12 1x

Description

Rich chocolate raspberry cupcakes bring European bakery magic to home kitchens, blending deep cocoa notes with tangy fruit. Creamy frosting and fresh raspberry garnish create an irresistible dessert you’ll savor with pure delightful indulgence.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ cup brown sugar, packed
  • ½ cup granulated sugar
  • ½ cup buttermilk
  • ½ cup hot water or coffee
  • 1 large egg

Dry Ingredients:

  • ¾ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

Liquid and Flavor Ingredients:

  • ⅓ cup vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries
  • 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon water

Instructions

  1. Craft the foundation for chocolate indulgence by arranging cupcake liners within a standard muffin tin, ensuring precise placement. Calibrate the oven temperature to 350F (175C) for optimal baking conditions.
  2. Construct the dry mixture by thoroughly whisking flour, cocoa powder, baking soda, and salt in a medium vessel until uniformly combined.
  3. In a separate expansive mixing bowl, vigorously integrate sugar, brown sugar, oil, egg, and vanilla essence until achieving a silky, homogeneous texture. Incorporate buttermilk to enhance moisture and richness.
  4. Gently fold the dry ingredients into the liquid mixture, exercising restraint to prevent overmixing. Introduce hot water or coffee, which deepens the chocolate profile and promotes a tender crumb.
  5. Distribute the batter meticulously among cupcake liners, filling each compartment approximately two-thirds full to allow proper rising during baking.
  6. Bake the cupcakes for 18-22 minutes, monitoring their progression by inserting a toothpick into the center. When it emerges pristine, remove from the oven and allow complete cooling.
  7. Create the raspberry filling by simmering raspberries, sugar, cornstarch, and water in a compact saucepan. Cook while stirring frequently until the mixture transforms into a luscious, thickened compote.
  8. Strain the filling if desiring a seedless consistency, then permit it to cool to room temperature.
  9. For the ganache, heat heavy cream until it reaches a steaming point. Pour over chocolate chips and allow a brief two-minute resting period before stirring to achieve a glossy, smooth texture.
  10. Whip softened butter until it achieves a creamy consistency. Gradually integrate powdered sugar, then introduce raspberry puree, beating until the buttercream becomes light and ethereal.
  11. Using a precise tool, excavate a small cavity within each cupcake’s center. Delicately fill these pockets with the prepared raspberry compote.
  12. Embellish the cupcakes by either drizzling the ganache or piping the raspberry buttercream atop each individual cake.
  13. Elevate the presentation by garnishing with fresh raspberries, delicate chocolate shavings, or a whisper of powdered sugar. Serve and savor these decadent creations.

Notes

  • Use room temperature ingredients to ensure smoother batter and even baking.
  • Avoid overmixing the batter to prevent tough, dense cupcakes.
  • Replace buttermilk with dairy-free alternatives like almond milk mixed with apple cider vinegar for a vegan version.
  • For gluten-free cupcakes, substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and add xanthan gum for better texture.
  • Freeze extra cupcakes in an airtight container for up to 3 months to enjoy later.
  • Adjust raspberry filling sweetness by tasting and adding more sugar if needed.
  • Create a more intense chocolate flavor by using espresso instead of hot water.
  • Store cupcakes in the refrigerator to keep the buttercream and filling fresh.
  • Test cupcake doneness by gently pressing the top – it should spring back when fully baked.
  • Add a splash of raspberry liqueur to the filling for an adult twist.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: Desserts
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 12
  • Calories: 210
  • Sugar: 15 g
  • Sodium: 150 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 3 g
  • Cholesterol: 25 mg
Jamie Granger

Jamie Granger

Recipe Developer & Food Writer

Expertise

  • Fusion Cuisine Development
  • Recipe Development and Food Styling
  • Culinary Writing and Content Creation
  • Nutrition and Healthy Cooking​

Education

Culinary Institute of America

  • Degree: Associate in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Emphasis on flavor development, classic and contemporary culinary techniques, menu design, and global cuisine preparation; combined with food-service management, communication, and finance training; and immersive hands‑on restaurant operations through paid industry internships.

Jamie Granger turns ingredients into memories. With her recipes, she brings a fusion-forward flair to every creation. 

Her dishes reflect the places she’s explored, the chefs she’s learned from, and the deep connection she has to food as a form of expression. 

At Pass and Provision, Jamie develops recipes that balance flavor, health, and beauty, meals that don’t just satisfy your appetite but speak to your curiosity.

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